Defence Council focuses on terrorism, Iraq and Syria

Fight against terrorism – National Defence and Security Council – Communiqué issued by the Presidency of the Republic

Paris, 2 November 2016

The National Defence and Security Council looked at the results of measures taken to guarantee the country’s protection against the developing terrorist threat. It also took stock of the various investigations under way.

On our forces’ operations abroad, the council also assessed the first weeks of the offensive to recapture Mosul, which is proceeding according to the goals set. It reviewed the details of our support for the Iraqi and Kurdish forces engaged in the operations to erode the defences of Daesh [so-called ISIL]. It recalled the absolute necessity of protection and humanitarian aid for civilians.

The situation in Syria was also discussed, as attacks on the population continue during the fighting. Efforts must be continued at every level to finally enable access to humanitarian supplies and the evacuation of wounded people in the districts of Aleppo under siege from the regime forces and their supporters./.